Yesterday Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern and Minister of Immigration Michael Wood announced an increase to the Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) cap, which will be set at 19,000 for the 2022/23 year.

This is an increase of 3,000 on the previous season.

The cap of 19,000 reflects the industry’s current assessment of its needs for the 2022/23 season based on production growth forecasts, employer demand and trends in the growth of the cap over recent years.

Sick leave will also be introduced for RSE workers from the time they commence employment each season.

Details of when this will be implemented are still being worked through.